Widebody BRZ: A Complete Guide

So, you're thinking about slapping a widebody kit on your BRZ? Awesome! You've come to the right place. Let's dive deep into the world of widebody BRZs, covering everything from why you might want one to how to choose the right kit and what to expect during the installation process. Trust me, this is going to be a fun ride!

Why Go Widebody on Your BRZ?

Let's start with the million-dollar question: Why even bother with a widebody kit? I mean, the BRZ already looks pretty sweet, right? Well, here's the deal. While the stock BRZ is undeniably stylish, a widebody kit takes its aesthetics to a whole new level. It's like turning the volume up to eleven! Think of it as giving your car a more aggressive, muscular stance that commands attention wherever it goes. But it's not just about the looks. A widebody kit allows you to run wider wheels and tires, which dramatically improves grip and handling. This is especially beneficial if you're into track days, autocross, or simply enjoy pushing your car to its limits on winding roads. More grip equals faster lap times and a more confident driving experience. Plus, let's be honest, a widebody BRZ just looks plain cool. It's a head-turner, a showstopper, and a guaranteed conversation starter. If you're looking to make a statement and stand out from the crowd, a widebody kit is definitely the way to go. And that's what most of us are looking for, right? Something that shows our personality and love for cars! Beyond the enhanced aesthetics, a widebody kit offers significant performance advantages. The ability to accommodate wider wheels and tires translates to a larger contact patch with the road, providing increased traction during acceleration, braking, and cornering. This improved grip enhances the car's handling characteristics, making it more responsive and predictable, particularly at higher speeds. For enthusiasts who frequent the track, a widebody conversion can unlock the full potential of their BRZ, allowing them to achieve faster lap times and a more competitive edge. Furthermore, the aggressive styling of a widebody kit can complement other performance modifications, such as upgraded suspension components, aerodynamic enhancements, and engine tuning, creating a cohesive and visually striking package that reflects the owner's dedication to both form and function.

Choosing the Right Widebody Kit

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of a widebody BRZ. Now comes the tricky part: choosing the right kit. There are a ton of options out there, each with its own unique style, quality, and price point. First things first, consider your budget. Widebody kits can range from a few hundred dollars for basic fender flares to several thousand dollars for full replacement kits made from high-end materials like carbon fiber. Don't forget to factor in the cost of installation, which can also vary depending on the complexity of the kit and the labor rates in your area. Once you have a budget in mind, start researching different kits and styles. Do you prefer a subtle, understated look or a more aggressive, in-your-face design? Are you looking for bolt-on fender flares or full replacement panels that require cutting and welding? Consider the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve and choose a kit that complements the BRZ's existing lines. Pay close attention to the quality of the materials and the fit and finish of the kit. Read reviews, check out photos, and if possible, see the kit in person before making a purchase. A poorly made kit can be a nightmare to install and may not hold up well over time. Some popular widebody kit brands for the BRZ include Rocket Bunny, Liberty Walk, Pandem, and Chargespeed. Each brand offers a unique style and level of aggression, so do your homework and choose the one that best suits your taste and budget. And remember, you often get what you pay for, so don't be afraid to invest in a high-quality kit that will last for years to come. This decision should also take into account the intended use of the vehicle. For a dedicated track car, prioritize kits that offer functional aerodynamic improvements, such as integrated diffusers and optimized airflow. These kits may come at a higher price point but can provide a tangible performance advantage on the circuit. Conversely, for a street-driven BRZ, aesthetics may take precedence, allowing for a wider range of stylistic choices. Ultimately, the selection process should involve a careful evaluation of budget, style, quality, and intended use to ensure a satisfactory outcome that aligns with the owner's vision and expectations.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

So, you've got your widebody kit in hand. Now what? Well, you have two options: tackle the installation yourself or hire a professional. If you're a seasoned DIYer with experience in bodywork and modifications, you might be tempted to take on the challenge yourself. However, be warned: installing a widebody kit is not for the faint of heart. It typically involves cutting, drilling, sanding, and painting, and requires a good understanding of automotive bodywork techniques. If you're not comfortable with these tasks, it's best to leave it to the professionals. A professional installation will ensure that the kit is properly fitted, aligned, and finished, resulting in a clean, seamless look. Plus, they'll have the tools and expertise to handle any unexpected issues that may arise during the process. Of course, professional installation comes at a cost, so be sure to get quotes from several reputable shops before making a decision. Ask about their experience with widebody kits and check out photos of their previous work. A good shop will be able to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide a detailed estimate of the cost and timeline for the installation. Whether you choose to DIY or go professional, be prepared for a significant time investment. Installing a widebody kit can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the kit and the level of detail you're aiming for. And remember, patience is key. Rushing the job can lead to mistakes and a less-than-perfect finish. The decision between DIY and professional installation should be based on your skill level, available resources, and willingness to invest time and effort. DIY installation can be a rewarding experience for those with the necessary skills and tools, but it also carries the risk of errors and potential damage to the vehicle. Professional installation provides peace of mind and guarantees a high-quality finish, but it comes at a higher cost. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision that aligns with your capabilities and budget.

Wheels and Tires: The Perfect Fit

Once your widebody kit is installed, you'll need to upgrade your wheels and tires to fill out those new, wider fenders. This is where things get really fun! Choosing the right wheels and tires is crucial for both aesthetics and performance. You'll want to select wheels that are wide enough to fill out the fenders without rubbing or sticking out too far. The offset of the wheels is also important, as it determines how far the wheels sit in or out of the wheel wells. A lower offset will push the wheels out, while a higher offset will pull them in. Consult with a wheel and tire specialist to determine the optimal wheel size and offset for your widebody kit. They can take measurements of your car and provide recommendations based on your specific setup. As for tires, you'll want to choose a size that provides plenty of grip without being too wide or tall. A wider tire will generally offer more grip, but it can also increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. A taller tire can improve ride quality but may also rub on the fenders or suspension components. Again, consult with a tire specialist to determine the best tire size for your needs. Don't be afraid to experiment with different wheel and tire combinations to find the perfect look and feel for your widebody BRZ. Consider factors such as tire compound, tread pattern, and sidewall stiffness, as these can all affect handling and performance. And remember, safety is always paramount. Make sure your wheels and tires are properly rated for the weight and speed of your vehicle. The selection of wheels and tires should complement the overall aesthetic of the widebody kit and enhance the car's performance capabilities. Consider the wheel's design, finish, and spoke pattern in relation to the car's color and style. Choose tires that offer a balance of grip, durability, and ride comfort, depending on your intended use of the vehicle. Ultimately, the goal is to create a cohesive and visually appealing package that maximizes both form and function. Remember to prioritize safety and consult with professionals to ensure proper fitment and performance.

Suspension and Alignment: Dialing It In

With your widebody kit and wheels and tires installed, it's time to focus on suspension and alignment. This is where you can really fine-tune the handling of your BRZ. A properly adjusted suspension and alignment can make a world of difference in terms of ride quality, cornering ability, and overall driving experience. If you haven't already, consider upgrading your suspension with aftermarket coilovers or lowering springs. This will lower the car's center of gravity, reduce body roll, and improve handling. Coilovers offer the most adjustability, allowing you to fine-tune the ride height, damping, and rebound to your liking. Lowering springs are a more affordable option, but they offer less adjustability. Once you've upgraded your suspension, it's crucial to get a proper alignment. A good alignment will ensure that your wheels are pointing in the correct direction, maximizing tire contact and minimizing wear. It will also improve handling and stability, especially at higher speeds. A performance alignment typically involves adjusting the camber, caster, and toe settings to optimize handling for track or street use. Consult with an alignment specialist to determine the best settings for your driving style and preferences. Be prepared to experiment with different alignment settings to find the sweet spot for your car. Small changes in alignment can have a significant impact on handling, so don't be afraid to make adjustments until you're happy with the results. And remember, a good suspension and alignment are essential for maximizing the performance of your widebody BRZ. They'll help you get the most out of your new wheels and tires and ensure that your car handles like a dream. The suspension and alignment adjustments should be tailored to the specific characteristics of the widebody kit and the intended use of the vehicle. Consider factors such as ride height, spring rates, damping forces, and alignment angles to optimize handling, stability, and comfort. Experimentation and fine-tuning are often necessary to achieve the desired results. Remember to consult with experienced professionals and prioritize safety to ensure that the car performs as expected.

Finishing Touches: Making It Your Own

Okay, so you've got your widebody kit, wheels, tires, suspension, and alignment all dialed in. Now it's time for the finishing touches that will really make your BRZ stand out from the crowd. This is where you can let your creativity shine and personalize your car to reflect your unique style. Consider adding some subtle aerodynamic enhancements, such as a front splitter, side skirts, or rear diffuser. These can not only improve the car's appearance but also enhance its performance by reducing drag and increasing downforce. A rear wing is another popular addition, but be careful not to go overboard. A tastefully designed wing can add a touch of aggression and improve stability at high speeds, but a poorly chosen wing can look out of place and detract from the car's overall aesthetic. Don't forget about the interior. Upgrading the seats, steering wheel, and shift knob can significantly improve the driving experience. Consider adding some carbon fiber trim or aluminum accents to give the interior a more sporty and upscale look. And of course, don't forget about the sound system. A high-quality sound system can make your drives more enjoyable, whether you're cruising around town or hitting the open road. Ultimately, the finishing touches are all about personalizing your BRZ to make it your own. Choose modifications that reflect your style and enhance your driving experience. And most importantly, have fun with it! This is your car, so make it something you're proud of. The finishing touches should be carefully considered to complement the overall design and purpose of the widebody BRZ. Focus on details such as color schemes, materials, and textures to create a cohesive and visually appealing package. Prioritize quality and craftsmanship to ensure that the modifications enhance the car's value and longevity. Remember to balance aesthetics with functionality to achieve the desired results without compromising performance or safety.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to widebody BRZs. Hopefully, this has given you a better understanding of what's involved in transforming your BRZ into a widebody masterpiece. Remember, it's not just about the looks. A widebody kit can significantly improve your car's handling and performance, making it a more enjoyable and capable machine. But it's also a significant investment of time and money, so be sure to do your research and plan carefully. Choose the right kit, find a reputable installer (or tackle the job yourself if you're up for the challenge), and don't forget about the wheels, tires, suspension, and alignment. And most importantly, have fun with it! Building a widebody BRZ is a rewarding experience that will give you a car that's truly unique and special. So go out there and make your dream a reality! Just remember to always drive responsibly and respect the limits of your car and your abilities. A widebody BRZ is a powerful machine, and it should be treated with respect. Enjoy the ride!